Education

Do you express tender, caring qualities, such as gentleness, compassion for others’ challenges, and a desire to look beyond appearances to see the individual of God’s creating?

Do you have a growing understanding of Christian Science practice? Does your heart yearn to be part of Christian Science healing and joy in seeing the power of God in action?

Are you committed to Church and its worldwide healing ministry?

If you answered “yes” to the questions above, and you are a member of The Mother Church and a branch church, society or CSO, you may be eligible to begin training to be a Christian Science nurse. Fern Lodge welcomes individuals from all over the US and Canada, and also from countries in Europe, South America, Africa, and Asia.

Before you begin training, you should have an understanding of how to heal in Christian Science and a desire to develop and improve your understanding and practice of Christian Science. You also should be able to study independently and accept correction graciously. You will need to be able to read and write in English. Classes are given in Spanish in countries where it is the official language.

Class size is small, ranging from 2-4, to provide individualized attention. Classes typically last 4-5 weeks for English speakers, and 5-6 weeks for non-native English speakers. Individuals who apply from outside the US must be able to speak and write English adequately for good communication.

A full range of courses is available in four levels to help those wishing to be Christian Science nurses. These courses may be taken during four-week periods with other students, or over the course of a few months to accommodate a work schedule. All training begins in a classroom setting where the metaphysical foundation is established.

During classes you will learn concepts of care and ethics that are in consonance with the teachings of Christian Science. Nursing skills are discussed and practiced in the classroom, followed by opportunities to observe those skills and ethics with patients.

Level 1 provides an overview of Christian Science nursing, and covers topics such as personal care and bathing; assistance with standing, walking, using mobility aids, such as wheelchairs and other assistive devices; dressing and undressing; tray service, food preparation, and assistance with meals; reading aloud; ethics; and public relations.

Levels 2 and 3 move into more advanced skills such as bed care; cleansing and bandaging of wounds; care in sudden or unusual situations; and care in home settings. Experience in home settings is available under the observation of spiritually inspired and experienced Journal-listed Christian Science nurses. Class Instruction is required before entering this level.

Level 4 includes review of all practical skills and ethics plus Christian Science nursing care for mother and infant at the birth of a child; supervision; teaching Christian Science nurses ways to teach and mentor other Christian Science nurses; and camp and school Christian Science nursing.

Christian Science nurses who desire to refresh their skills and ethics, and learn about new products and procedures, may attend a several-day course tailored to their needs. Practical experience on our Christian Science nursing floor is also available. For those not able to come to Fern Lodge, training in certain courses may be available through Skype or other computer based programs.

With the experience you’ve gained, you may want to list your name in The Christian Science Journal to advertise your availability to the public. Your loving service is needed the world over, in Christian Science nursing facilities, private homes of Christian Scientists, visiting Christian Science nursing services, and at schools and camps for Christian Science children. A list of Christian Science organizations may be found at the website, http://www.aocsn.org.

There is tuition for each level of training, and costs associated with staying at Fern Lodge during the classroom and training periods. Financial assistance is available for those who need it.

Call, write or email Sharon Strong at 510-886-2448, ext. 222, or sharonstrong.fernlodge@gmail.com for more information about classes and for an application. You can also fill out the online class form here.

So, if you are looking for something meaningful to do for your fellowman—if you have raised a family, had a career, or are out of school and eager to share your experience and love, we are waiting for you!

If you are interested in taking a class with our Director of Christian Science Nursing Education, Sharon Strong, please call her at 510-886-2448 Ex 222